On Sunday February 12th, 2012, I was lucky enough to witness a truly magical moment in person. At our Second Annual Walk for Life, Dr. Scott Savader, a transplant recipient, was introduced to his donor, Jill Rubin, for the first time in front of family, friends and Gift of Life staff and supporters. As we anxiously awaited the big moment, I scanned the crowd, hoping to catch a glimpse of the “mystery” hero who was responsible for saving Scott’s life.
When I finally saw Jill emerge from the crowd and approach the stage, I smiled; everything we work for here at Gift of Life came to fruition on that stage. The mood quickly turned from anxious to emotional as we watched them share a tearful but happy embrace. Even though they had never met, it was clear the two would be life-long friends. A local newspaper quoted Scott as saying that receiving his transplant was "like being plucked from a fire or a sinking car. There is a bond there now that transcends just knowing someone came forward. If not for her generosity, I would have died."
Scott and Jill’s meeting served as the perfect Walk for Life kick-off, inspiring participants and spectators to walk, run, and have fun with an honorable purpose: saving lives! Burnie, the Miami HEAT mascot, kept the crowd revved up by giving tons of high fives, posing for pictures with excited children, and dancing to the fun music provided by 97.9 WRMF. Despite the chilly temperatures, spirits remained high as we (Gift of Life staff and volunteers) cheered each and every walker/runner across the finish line with the clamor of Jamba Juice branded cowbells.
After guests finished the 5K course, they enjoyed entertainment, refreshments, freebies from our sponsors and the chance to win one of our raffle prizes. I was especially inspired as I wandered over to the recruitment table, where many participants were swabbing their cheeks to join the registry, aspiring to one day be a hero like Jill Rubin.
There were many highlights at this year’s Walk for Life, including Brett Loewenstern’s beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, but the Walk would not have been complete without our little star and transplant survivor, six year old Matthew, who helped select winners for the raffle prizes and was an all around joy to watch as he danced and laughed throughout the entire morning! In that moment, seeing Matthew dancing and playing, as well as watching Scott meet Jill for the first time, I saw just how truly important my work at Gift of Life is. I might not be a doctor or do medical research, but by spreading awareness to the community through our social media channels, recruiting new donors, facilitating transplants, and organizing special events, I am proud of the role I play in helping to give children and adults like Matthew and Scott a second chance at life.
This year’s Walk for Life was an event to remember! Thank you to our sponsors, volunteers, and faithful supporters for working with us to make it happen. See you next year!
-Ashley, Gift of Life Marketing Coordinator